A training programme aimed at improving the welfare of captive lions and large predators was held at the Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary outside Bethlehem last week.

The pilot initiative, organised by the international animal welfare organisation Four Paws and supported by Humane World for Animals, brought together conservation officials, animal welfare specialists and representatives of the captive lion industry.

Participants, including senior officials from the Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency, received theoretical and practical training on animal welfare legislation, compliance monitoring and enforcement procedures.

Shift in attitudes towards wildlife management

The training focused on internationally recognised frameworks such as the Five Domains Model and the One Welfare approach, which acknowledge that animals are sentient beings with physical, behavioural and psychological needs.

The programme aimed to equip officials with knowledge and skills to identify welfare concerns, conduct inspections and ensure captive predators receive appropriate care, the organisers stated.

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Fiona Miles, director of Four Paws South Africa, said the programme reflected a shift in attitudes towards wildlife management.

“We are witnessing a necessary shift from viewing wildlife purely as a resource to recognising animals as sentient beings whose welfare and wellbeing must be protected in every decision we make,” she said.

Real-life case studies, observance of animal management practices

The training covered enforcement and accountability, including guidance on evidence collection, inspection procedures, reporting requirements and cooperation between regulatory authorities, the police, SPCAs and prosecutors.

Real-life case studies involving neglected lions and legal battles were examined to highlight the consequences of inadequate permitting systems and poor enforcement practices.

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Tony Gerrans, director of Humane World for Animals, said effective enforcement began before matters reach the courtroom.

“Strong permitting systems, robust inspections and informed decision-making are essential to ensuring compliance and protecting animals from suffering,” Gerrans said.

The sanctuary environment at Lionsrock provided participants with an opportunity to observe animal management practices.

Organisers described the training as the first in a national programme aimed at creating welfare standards across South Africa and improving cooperation between government agencies, animal welfare organisations and wildlife stakeholders.

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